Steering Knuckles
About Steering Knuckles
The steering knuckle holds the wheel hub and bearing and connects to the control arms through the ball joints and to the tie rod. It is a structural part, so owners shop here after a hard hit bends one, when a crack or worn bore appears, or to fit a Race Edition knuckle in place of the standard one.
Knuckles are handed, so the listings state front left, front right or both, and they name the machine and years, such as a Can-Am from 2020 to 2021. Two samples are rear independent suspension kits marked knuckle only for Kawasaki and Yamaha, which means the knuckle is sold on its own, so check whether you also need the bearing, hub or ball joint. A bent or cracked knuckle cannot be straightened or repaired safely, so replace it. While it is out, inspect the ball joints, tie rod end and wheel bearing. Check wheel alignment after the job.
Brands in this category include SDI, Moose Offroad and PM Off-Road. Pick your machine in the Ride Finder at the top of the page. Related parts are in Control Arms, Ball Joints & Assemblies, Wheel Bearings, Hubs & Seals and Tie Rods & Steering Linkages. The group is in Steering & Suspension.
FAQs on UTV and ATV steering knuckles
How do I know if a steering knuckle is bent or damaged?
Look for cracks, a bent spindle, wear in the bores for the ball joints or bearing, and a wheel that sits out of line after an impact. A machine that pulls or will not hold alignment after a hit points to damage. Inspect it with the wheel off.
Are left and right steering knuckles different?
Yes. Knuckles are handed, and listings state front left, front right or both. Order the correct side for the corner you are fixing. For an axle with damage on both sides, check both knuckles, since an impact often loads each side.
Can a bent steering knuckle be straightened?
No. A bent or cracked knuckle is a structural part and should be replaced. Straightening can weaken the metal. Because steering depends on it, follow your service manual and replace the part rather than trying to repair it.
What else should I replace when I change a knuckle?
Check the ball joints, the tie rod end and the wheel bearing at the same time, since they work with the knuckle and are accessible once it is out. Listings marked knuckle only do not include those parts, so order what you need.
Do I need an alignment after fitting a new knuckle?
Yes, check it. A new knuckle can change wheel position slightly, and steering parts have been disturbed. Check toe and the other settings in your service manual, and recheck all fasteners after the first ride.
